Blazer hatch hardware removal

[jobrla]

Has anyone every removed all the hardware off a 69-72 blazer hatch. I'm talking about the handle, left and right rod linkage and left and right latch stuff.
Is there a trick or do you just go for it. I notice that one of the handle return spring in front is impossible to get to, and if you do get off, how do you connect back up.
Anyway, any help?
thanks

[Tom Vogel]

Its really not that difficult. Just go for it. Also, as I remember, there is only one return spring, and it is IN the handle mechanism. you dont need to take that apart to remove everything. Just pop off the retainers , and unbolt the latches and snake them out.

[pound41]

only thing that can be hard is getting the handle shaft to slide through the mechanism. Its a tight fit. everything else is very doable. Some good detailed threads from the past if you search

[jobrla]

Thanks guy

[Andy69Blazer]

I just got done re-working the hatch on my 69. May be good info to pass on (do at your own risk) that I had to cut one end off of both rods and re-bend them to shorten the rods to get the latches to work! It you need to get lock cylinder out of handle google how to remove it. There is a trick but it can be done. Do it right order or you will break end of cylinder off!!! Oh and lots of penetrating spray if your hardware is rusty!

[Senorx]

My hatch is being painted right now. I have a donor hatch that I will be removing all the hardware from. Thinking about separating the donor to remove the hardware. I'll post detailed pics of the process if I do decide to separate the donor.